Lingzhi Tea

Herbal teas are quite popular the world over owing to the number of health benefits they provide on consumption. One such tea is the Lingzhi tea which is concocted from a mushroom of the same name. The Lingzhi is a species of mushrooms that are mainly found in Japan. In Asia, this mushroom is also called the mushroom of immortality. Though a native of Japan, Lingzhi, or the Reishi mushroom (as it is also known as) has found its way in ancient Chinese medicine, since 4000 years. The distinctive feature of this mushroom is its bright red colored cap and kidney shaped body. The extract of this mushroom is used as a herbal remedy to cure a number of maladies and can be taken in the form of capsules, pills, powder, extract and even concocted as tea.

Brewing Lingzhi Tea

Things Required

• Lingzhi mushroom powder or slice
• Water
• Honey or fruit juice

Method

Boil four cups of water in a saucepan and add the Lingzhi mushroom extract or piece to it. Allow the tea to steep for about 15 minutes on low heat. Pour this tea in a cup and enjoy its refreshing brew. Since it can Lingzhi mushroom tea can be bitter, you can add honey or fruit juice to sweeten it.

Lingzhi Mushroom Tea Health Benefits

Drinking a cup of Lingzhi tea is known to be beneficial for the overall health of the body system. This is because there are approximately 252 active components which are essential for the proper functioning of the body. Due to its medicinal properties, Lingzhi is used to cure a number of ailments. Listed below are some of the therapeutic uses of this herbal tea.

• The antioxidants in this mushroom fight against the free radicals in the body and prevent the occurrence of many a disease and infection.
• This miracle herb also improves blood circulation and thereby facilitates increased absorption of oxygen. It also helps maintain the optimal level of oxygen in the body.
• Lingzhi tea is an excellent remedy for weight loss since it dissuades the accumulation of cholesterol. It is also popular in many weight loss regimens.
• Lingzhi mushroom tea triggers the production of white blood cells, which helps strengthen the immune system. Interferon is produced in the body, which acts as a protective shield against tumors and viral infections.
• This herbal supplement also has a soothing effect on the nerves. It helps calm the nerves, relaxes the skeletal muscles and also fights against the effects of caffeine on the central nervous system.
• Since it also has anti-inflammatory properties, individuals suffering from arthritis and other inflammatory diseases have known to be benefited from this herb. A regular intake of this herbal tea can improve the free movement of the joints and reduce the pain and discomfort caused due to inflammation.
• Apart from these beneficial uses, the mushroom tea also acts as a tonic to promote the overall vitality of the body, purify blood, stimulates the function of the liver, balancing blood pressure and also fights against early signs of aging.

Side Effects of Lingzhi Tea

Taking Lingzhi tea in healthy amounts is always good for health, but exceeding the limit can lead to some undesirable side effects which may harm the body in a number of ways. These effects can be a result of overconsumption, without proper consultation.

• Dry, scratchy throat
• Upset stomach
• Nausea induced vomiting
• Allergic skin rashes and hives
• Facial swelling
• Profuse bleeding after an injury
• Steep drop in blood pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Irregular heartbeats

Though, there are many beneficial uses of this herbal tea, it is always advisable to consult a herbalist or a health care provider before consuming any supplement in order to avoid unwanted complications.